GUNNISON HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC/ACTIVITY STUDENT/PARENT HANDBOOK
I. INTRODUCTION Athletic and activity participation presents young people with unique and exciting opportunities. With those opportunities comes the responsibility of being a positive extension of the school and a positive role model for others. It is essential that all students and their parents understand that participation in Gunnison High School athletics and activities is a privilege, not a right, and therefore a high level of academic and behavioral standards must be maintained. The Athletic/Activity Code is the primary source of specifying those standards and expectations. All participants and their parents/guardians are expected to thoroughly understand its content and application.
SPORTSMANSHIP Good sportsmanship is the cornerstone of a quality athletic/activity program. Gunnison High School along with the Colorado High School Activity Association (CHSAA) is committed to placing sportsmanship as a top priority in all school activities. Respect for one self, opponents, and officials is expected of coaches/activity sponsors, participants and spectators at all times. Displays of poor sportsmanship may warrant suspension of participants and/or the banning of spectators from attending athletic/activity events.
BE A POSITIVE ROLE MODEL Your conduct at activity and athletic events is on display for all to see. Elementary and middle school students can be influenced tremendously by the actions and modeling of high school students. If YOU want to represent Gunnison High School in athletics and activities you are expected to BE A POSITIVE ROLE MODEL!
II. GENERAL INFORMATION
PRE-SPORT/ACTIVITY PARTICIPATION The following forms must be SIGNED BY ALL APPROPRIATE PARTIES and on file before a student may begin practice or is issued equipment:
1. Student Athletic /Activity Code Contract 2. Physical Examination (Athletics only) A STUDENT’S PHYSICAL EXAM IS IN EFFECT FOR 365 CALENDAR DAYS. 3. Parent Permission for Participation 4. Emergency Information Card 5. Insurance Coverage for Athletic/Activity Injuries IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN TO PROVIDE INSURANCE PROTECTION FOR THE STUDENT WHILE PARTICIPATING IN ATHLETIC/ACTIVITY PROGRAMS. THE SCHOOL DISTRICT MAKES AVAILABLE STUDENT INSURANCE PLANS WHICH OFFERS COVERAGE FOR ANY ACCIDENT OR INJURY RESULTING FROM PARTICIPATION IN SCHOOL- RELATED PROGRAMS. 6. Athletic/ Activity Fee Paid in Full CONTACT THE ATHLETIC/ACTIVITY DIRECTOR FOR INFORMATION REGARDING FEE WAIVERS. Page 1
FEES Student athletic fees are currently $100.00 per sport with a family cap of $500 per year (GHS only). Student activity fees range from $25.00 to $75.00. (Fees are subject to change by the Board of Education). Participation fees go directly to the sport or activity in which the student participates. Athletic/Activity fees collected account for approximately one-fourth to one-half the costs incurred to provide each program. STUDENTS WILL NOT BE REFUSED PARTICIPATION FOR THE INABILITY TO PAY FEES. FINANCIAL HARDSHIP WAIVERS ARE AVAILABLE THROUGH THE GHS MAIN OFFICE.
EQUIPMENT It is understood that the athlete/activity participant accepts the responsibility for all equipment issued and shall provide for its proper care, storage, and return. Athletes/activity participants shall assume responsibility for the equipment not returned when due and shall be suspended from athletics/activities until all equipment is either returned, paid for, or arrangements have been made through the Principal or the Athletic/Activity Director for replacement of such equipment.
DUAL SPORT PARTICIPATION A student may participate in two sports during the same season provided he/she attains approval from parents, coaches and the Athletic Director prior to the seasons first day of practice. The following conditions must be met to in order to participate in dual sports.
1. A meeting must be held with the athlete, parents, coaches and Athletic Director prior to the first practice. 2. The student must choose a primary sport. All parties will sign a written agreement, which includes specific information regarding practices and priority of contests during the regular and post seasons. (Form available from Athletic Director) 3. The athlete must practice nine days in each sport before participating in a contest (with the exception of golf & softball). * If a conflict arises, the school Athletic Director will intervene and make a determination, which will be binding.
TEAM SELECTION In some sports and activities facilities and team size limit the number of students who can participate. Any student who does not make the team in one of these sports or activities remains eligible for other sports and activities offered in the same season provided a position is available.
ATHLETIC/ACTIVITY INJURIES If at any time during participation, a doctor removes a student from participation because of an illness or injury, the student must have a written release from a doctor before participating again. The written release must be given to the coach/supervisor and/or Athletic Trainer.
The release may be satisfied if upon removal the doctor specifies the duration of the student’s restriction from participation and/or competition.
A coach/supervisor may refer a student for a medical evaluation if he/she believes the student to be in physical danger. If this occurs, a doctor’s written release is required before the student may return to practice/participation.
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TRANSPORTATION Athletes/Activity participants are always encouraged to ride the designated school vehicle to athletic/activity events when provided. Students are not allowed to drive themselves or other students to an event. If parents are transporting their student or another student to an event, written permission is required and must be given to the coach/sponsor prior to the trip. If a parent/guardian wishes to transport their son/daughter home after an event they must first sign their student out with the coach/sponsor. If a participant intends to leave an event with a person other than school personnel or their parent, prior written permission must be provided to the coach/sponsor. The driver must be at least 21 years of age.
*NOTE - If a participant causes disruption on a school vehicle they may be suspended from riding any district transportation for up to one calendar year.
III. ELIGIBILITY ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY If an athlete/activity participant is failing twoor more classes on the weekly eligibility report (cumulative/semester grade), the student will not be eligible for competition or activity events for that week. If the student is ineligible four times in a sport/activity season, the student will be suspended from the sport/activity for the remainder of that season. Academic eligibility begins the Tuesday prior to the first athletic scrimmage/contest or activity event, through the last week of competition. Eligibility will be determined and implemented from Tuesday 12:00 noon until the following Tuesday 12:00 noon. A student declared ineligible will not be permitted to travel with the team to away events, nor will they be allowed to sit or dress with the team at home events. Athletes/Activity participants are expected to practice during the period of ineligibility.
SCHOOL ATTENDANCE Athletes/Activity participants must be in school for the full day on the day of an event. (Doctor appointments, activity absences, or emergency situations are an exception.)
Athletes/Activity participants must be in school periods 5, 6, & 7 in order to practice. (Doctor appointments, activity absences, or emergency situations are an exception.)
UNEXCUSED ABSENCE If a student has an unexcused absence during the school day, that student will not be able to participate in the next athletic contest/activity event. If there are two games/events during the week of an unexcused absence, the student may participate in the second game/event. That decision will be made by his or her coach/activity sponsor. A student will not be allowed to practice ON THE DAY OF AN UNEXCUSED ABSENCE. The assistant principal/principal has the authority under Colorado State Law to determine if an absence is excused or unexcused.
Athletes/Activity participants must be in school all day after an early morning practice (Doctor appointments, activity absences, or emergency situations are an exception.) Failure to attend ALL classes after an early morning practice will constitute an unexcused absence and suspension from the next contest. Athletes/Activity participants must be in school all day the day following a weekday game/event. “Sleeping in”, regardless of parental excuse, will be regarded as an unexcused absence and will warrant a suspension to be determined by the athletic director and coach/activity sponsor.
Students must attend pep assemblies during their sport season or face suspension for the next athletic contest/activity event. Contact athletic director/ principal/ coach/sponsor if an exception arises. Page 3
SUSPENSION FROM SCHOOL If a student is suspended from school (in and/or out) the student will not be eligible for the next competition/event he/she may compete in.
If a student is suspended from school, the student will not be able to participate in any practices until the suspension is completed. The absence from practice will be considered as one unexcused practice no matter how many days the student is suspended.
If a student is suspended from school for a second time during a sport/activity the student will be suspended from that sport/activity for the remainder of the season.
PRACTICE ATTENDANCE Athletes/Activity participants must attend 1/2 of the practices between contests in order to be eligible for the next competition/event. (Exceptions can be made by the Athletic/Activity/ Director/Principal.)
UNEXCUSED ABSENCE An unexcused absence from practice is one in which the coach/sponsor has not been notified by the athlete/activity participant or their parent, that he or she will miss practice that day. This could also include an excuse that is not acceptable by his or her coach/supervisor. (e.g. something other than school absence or emergency situation.)
First unexcused absence - student and parent are notified of the unexcused absence. AN UNEXCUSED ABSENCE form MUST BE signed by the student and PARENT and returned to the coach/sponsor. Athletes/Activity participants will miss the next athletic contest/ activity event.
Second unexcused absence - Athlete/Activity participants and parent will be notified. The student will be suspended for the remainder of the season.
QUITTING A SPORT If a student chooses to quit a sport/activity he/she is expected to do it properly. The student should make his/her reasons known to the coach in person and must return all equipment and clear all financial responsibilities with the school. Fees may be returned if a student quits a sport/activity within the first two weeks of practice (It is the student’s/parent’s responsibility to request a refund of fees).
A student who quits a sport or activity may not participate in a/the second/next sport or activity during the same season until he/she obtains a written release from the coach of the sport/activity dropped. EXAMPLE: If a participant quits football, he may not begin basketball practice nor join the cross country team until the football season is completed or he receives written permission from his football coach.
Page 4 Gunnison High School Athletic/Activity Code of Conduct GENERAL EXPECTATIONS OF ATHLETES/ACTIVITY PARTICIPANTS Participants are expected to conduct themselves in a commendable manner at all times in school and the community with special emphasis on appropriate behavior during interscholastic contests, and toward opponents, officials and spectators. The use of profane language and/or unsportsmanlike conduct, the harassment, intimidation or assault upon another individual or another individual’s property will not be tolerated. All athletic and activity participants and their parents should understand that participation in extra-curricular activities is a privilege and not a right. Given that point of emphasis, ALL students representing Gunnison High School in competition are expected to follow training and practice rules as outlined by the Athletic/Activity Code and by their sport/activity specific rules & regulations. Gunnison High School administration and staff also recognize that the expectations set forth in this contract are not only intended to teach proper behavior, respect and responsibility but also to promote the safety and welfare of every GHS student.
CODE VIOLATIONS
1. The possession, distribution, sale, or other use of illegal drugs and/or alcohol.
2. Being in the presence of others who are consuming, possessing, or distributing illegal drugs or alcohol.
3. The use or possession of tobacco in any form.
4.Criminal Offenses - Any legally punishable act whether or not the student is prosecuted by governmental authorities. Criminal offense violations will warrant a minimum of dismissal from the current season or upcoming season if the student is out of season when the violation occurs. Criminal offenses may warrant up to a 12 month suspension based on the severity of the offense.
5. Continued willful disobedience or open persistent defiance of authority.
6. Willful destruction or defacing of public property.
7. Behavior that is detrimental to the welfare, safety, or morals of other students of the school or school personnel.
8. Any behavior deemed detrimental to the team or program.
Any infraction of the above mentioned situations may result in a contract violation.
The building principal will have the authority to make the final decision in all code violation matters.
GHS Student rules of conduct and behavior apply at all school-sponsored activities both on and off campus.
When is this contract in effect? This contract is in effect throughout the student’s high school career (from the time the student first signed the contract until the day of graduation). Except for criminal offenses, code violations will be enforced during the school year only (defined as the first day of fall practice through the last day of school and or the official end of an activity/sport season). Criminal offense violations are subject to suspension and disciplinary action on a year round basis. Examples of criminal offenses include, but are not limited to: DUI, sale of or possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia, crimes of violence, theft.
Is the code in effect while I am out of season? Students who violate the Code of Conduct out of season within the time frame identified above, or while participating in a school sanctioned activity during the summer months (i.e. camps, fundraising events, etc. ), are subject to disciplinary action at the beginning of the next competitive season or the next activity in which they are involved.
What happens if a violation is reported? Any violation reported to the school administration will be investigated. Persons reporting said violation MUST be willing to testify in person or in writing if requested. Also see NOTIFICATION AND DUE PROCESS below. Note - Students and parents should be aware that while school personnel do not monitor websites such as “Facebook” and “Myspace” looking for incriminating evidence, such sights are public and may be used during an investigation.
NOTIFICATION AND DUE PROCESS The student and his or her parent(s)/guardian(s) shall be notified as soon as possible of any alleged code violation. The student and his or her parent(s)/guardian(s) shall have an opportunity to meet with building administrators regarding the allegations. At that time the student will have the opportunity to admit to the alleged code violation or to present evidence and/or challenge evidence presented against him or her. After this meeting, the athletic director and/or building administrator will then render a decision which will result in one of three actions.
1. The student has admitted the violation and a suspension will be assessed and served.
2. The athlete has denied the charge; however, the athletic director and/or building administrator will assess a suspension based on the evidence.
3. The alleged violation will be dropped due to insufficient evidence.
If a suspension is assessed at this time, the athletic director or building administrator shall inform the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) of the decision and the basis for it. Notification will be either in person, by phone or in writing.
Appeal Process The parent(s)/guardian(s) or athlete may appeal the decision in writing to the superintendant or superintendant’s designee, within three(3) school days after the decision of the athletic director or building administrator. The superintendent or his/her designee will, within three (3) school days of receipt of the written appeal, arrange a meeting between the appropriate parties to review the suspension. This meeting will be conducted by the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee. At this meeting the student will again be provided the opportunity to present on his/her behalf and challenge evidence that has been presented. A summary of the meeting, including the decision made, will be put in writing by the person conducting the meeting and a copy sent to the athlete and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) within three (3) school days after the meeting has been held.
The school shall consider this decision final.
FIRST VIOLATION (Violations other that criminal offenses) The student/athlete will be suspended immediately from the current sport season for a minimum of forty (40%) of the allowable contests as established by the Colorado High School Activities Association (including playoffs) or according to the carry-over rule. If the student/athlete is not currently involved in an activity; he/she will be suspended for forty percent (40%) of the next season in which he/she is a bona fide team member. Criminal Offense Violations – The student will be suspended for the remainder of the current or upcoming season. Depending on the severity of the offense, criminal offenses may warrant up to a 12 month suspension.
Students who violate the Code of Conduct while participating in an athletic function/ activity event will be immediately dismissed from the program and will forfeit all lettering and post-season honors.
Honesty Penalty Reduction Students who on their own volition report their code violations (not including criminal offenses) to the principal, athletic director or coach will have their suspension reduced to ten (10) percent of the allowable contests. The honesty penalty reduction is available on the first violation only and results in the student waiving his or her right to appeal the suspension. The honesty penalty reduction may not apply when the school would have been made aware of the violation through another source. If an athlete self reports a criminal violation of the athletic/activity code, it will be taken into consideration, along with the severity of the offense, when determining the length of the suspension.
Baseball 19 7 contests 2 contests Basketball 19 7 contests 2 contests Cross Country 11 4 contests 1 contest Dance N/A 4 contests/performances 1 contest Football 10 4 contests 1 contest Golf Boys/Girls 11 4 contests 1 contest Gymnastics 11 4 contests 1 contest Softball 19 7 contests 2 contests Swimming Boys/Girls 11 4 contests 1 contest Track 11 4 contests 1 contest Volleyball 19 7contests 2 contests Wrestling 30 matches 12 matches 3 matches Activities N/A Minimum suspension to be the next event (additional suspension to be determined by sponsor and administration)
Please note that all student/athletes must start the season at the beginning of the sports season (before the 1st contest date) and successfully complete the season in order for a suspension to be completed.
CARRY OVER RULE: A suspension will be carried over and enforced, on a percentage basis, into the athlete’s next sport season if the suspension has not been completed. (The next sport season being the next sport the athlete participates in and is a bona fide team member.)
SECOND VIOLATION A second offense within the same school calendar year will warrant suspension from all athletics/activities for the remainder of the school year.
A second offense occurring not in the same school year, but during a student’s attendance at Gunnison High School will result in suspension from twice as many contests as are applicable for the first violation.
THIRD VIOLATION A third offense and any subsequent violations occurring at any time during a student’s attendance at Gunnison High School will result in suspension from all athletics/activities for the remainder of their high school career. Consideration for reinstatement of eligibility may be considered after the completion of a rehabilitative or counseling program and a minimum of 100 hours of community service.
In order for a student to participate in an activity or athletic program, the student’s parent/guardian(s) must sign and return the acknowledgement of “this contract” to the building athletic/activity director.
In the event that information is reported to the school, I agree to cooperate fully with the school’s investigation and if needed, I will give the school a release for criminal justice and or juvenile justice records to complete the investigation. If I refuse to give consent when asked, this would become grounds for a contract violation.** _ Student/Athlete Signature Parent/Guardian Signature ___ Date Date
ATHLETIC/ACTIVITY STUDENT/PARENT HANDBOOK
I. INTRODUCTION
Athletic and activity participation presents young people with unique and exciting opportunities. With those opportunities comes the responsibility of being a positive extension of the school and a positive role model for others. It is essential that all students and their parents understand that participation in Gunnison High School athletics and activities is a privilege, not a right, and therefore a high level of academic and behavioral standards must be maintained. The Athletic/Activity Code is the primary source of specifying those standards and expectations. All participants and their parents/guardians are expected to thoroughly understand its content and application.
SPORTSMANSHIP
Good sportsmanship is the cornerstone of a quality athletic/activity program. Gunnison High School along with the Colorado High School Activity Association (CHSAA) is committed to placing sportsmanship as a top priority in all school activities. Respect for one self, opponents, and officials is expected of coaches/activity sponsors, participants and spectators at all times. Displays of poor sportsmanship may warrant suspension of participants and/or the banning of spectators from attending athletic/activity events.
BE A POSITIVE ROLE MODEL
Your conduct at activity and athletic events is on display for all to see. Elementary and middle school students can be influenced tremendously by the actions and modeling of high school students. If YOU want to represent Gunnison High School in athletics and activities you are expected to BE A POSITIVE ROLE MODEL!
II. GENERAL INFORMATION
PRE-SPORT/ACTIVITY PARTICIPATION
The following forms must be SIGNED BY ALL APPROPRIATE PARTIES
and on file before a student may begin practice or is issued equipment:
1. Student Athletic /Activity Code Contract
2. Physical Examination (Athletics only)
A STUDENT’S PHYSICAL EXAM IS IN EFFECT FOR 365 CALENDAR DAYS.
3. Parent Permission for Participation
4. Emergency Information Card
5. Insurance Coverage for Athletic/Activity Injuries
IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN TO PROVIDE INSURANCE
PROTECTION FOR THE STUDENT WHILE PARTICIPATING IN ATHLETIC/ACTIVITY PROGRAMS.
THE SCHOOL DISTRICT MAKES AVAILABLE STUDENT INSURANCE PLANS WHICH OFFERS
COVERAGE FOR ANY ACCIDENT OR INJURY RESULTING FROM PARTICIPATION IN SCHOOL-
RELATED PROGRAMS.
6. Athletic/ Activity Fee Paid in Full
CONTACT THE ATHLETIC/ACTIVITY DIRECTOR FOR INFORMATION
REGARDING FEE WAIVERS.
Page 1
FEES
Student athletic fees are currently $100.00 per sport with a family cap of $500 per year (GHS only). Student activity fees range from $25.00 to $75.00. (Fees are subject to change by the Board of Education). Participation fees go directly to the sport or activity in which the student participates. Athletic/Activity fees collected account for approximately one-fourth to one-half the costs incurred to provide each program.
STUDENTS WILL NOT BE REFUSED PARTICIPATION FOR THE INABILITY TO PAY FEES.
FINANCIAL HARDSHIP WAIVERS ARE AVAILABLE THROUGH THE GHS MAIN OFFICE.
EQUIPMENT
It is understood that the athlete/activity participant accepts the responsibility for all equipment issued and shall provide for its proper care, storage, and return. Athletes/activity participants shall assume responsibility for the equipment not returned when due and shall be suspended from athletics/activities until all equipment is either returned, paid for, or arrangements have been made through the Principal or the Athletic/Activity Director for replacement of such equipment.
DUAL SPORT PARTICIPATION
A student may participate in two sports during the same season provided he/she attains approval from parents, coaches and the Athletic Director prior to the seasons first day of practice. The following conditions must be met to in order to participate in dual sports.
1. A meeting must be held with the athlete, parents, coaches and Athletic Director prior to the first practice.
2. The student must choose a primary sport. All parties will sign a written agreement, which includes specific information regarding practices and priority of contests during the regular and post seasons.
(Form available from Athletic Director)
3. The athlete must practice nine days in each sport before participating in a contest (with the exception of golf & softball).
* If a conflict arises, the school Athletic Director will intervene and make a determination, which will be binding.
TEAM SELECTION
In some sports and activities facilities and team size limit the number of students who can participate. Any student who does not make the team in one of these sports or activities remains eligible for other sports and activities offered in the same season provided a position is available.
ATHLETIC/ACTIVITY INJURIES
If at any time during participation, a doctor removes a student from participation because of an illness or injury, the student must have a written release from a doctor before participating again. The written release must be given to the coach/supervisor and/or Athletic Trainer.
The release may be satisfied if upon removal the doctor specifies the duration of the student’s restriction from participation and/or competition.
A coach/supervisor may refer a student for a medical evaluation if he/she believes the student to be in physical danger. If this occurs, a doctor’s written release is required before the student may return to practice/participation.
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TRANSPORTATION
Athletes/Activity participants are always encouraged to ride the designated school vehicle to athletic/activity events when provided. Students are not allowed to drive themselves or other students to an event. If parents are transporting their student or another student to an event, written permission is required and must be given to the coach/sponsor prior to the trip. If a parent/guardian wishes to transport their son/daughter home after an event they must first sign their student out with the coach/sponsor. If a participant intends to leave an event with a person other than school personnel or their parent, prior written permission must be provided to the coach/sponsor. The driver must be at least 21 years of age.
*NOTE - If a participant causes disruption on a school vehicle they may be suspended from riding any district transportation for up to one calendar year.
III. ELIGIBILITY
ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY
If an athlete/activity participant is failing twoor more classes on the weekly eligibility report (cumulative/semester grade), the student will not be eligible for competition or activity events for that week. If the student is ineligible four times in a sport/activity season, the student will be suspended from the sport/activity for the remainder of that season. Academic eligibility begins the Tuesday prior to the first athletic scrimmage/contest or activity event, through the last week of competition. Eligibility will be determined and implemented from Tuesday 12:00 noon until the following Tuesday 12:00 noon.
A student declared ineligible will not be permitted to travel with the team to away events, nor will they be allowed to sit or dress with the team at home events. Athletes/Activity participants are expected to practice during the period of ineligibility.
SCHOOL ATTENDANCE
Athletes/Activity participants must be in school for the full day on the day of an event. (Doctor appointments, activity absences, or emergency situations are an exception.)
Athletes/Activity participants must be in school periods 5, 6, & 7 in order to practice. (Doctor appointments, activity absences, or emergency situations are an exception.)
UNEXCUSED ABSENCE
If a student has an unexcused absence during the school day, that student will not be able to participate in the next athletic contest/activity event. If there are two games/events during the week of an unexcused absence, the student may participate in the second game/event. That decision will be made by his or her coach/activity sponsor. A student will not be allowed to practice ON THE DAY OF AN UNEXCUSED ABSENCE. The assistant principal/principal has the authority under Colorado State Law to determine if an absence is excused or unexcused.
Athletes/Activity participants must be in school all day after an early morning practice (Doctor appointments, activity absences, or emergency situations are an exception.) Failure to attend ALL classes after an early morning practice will constitute an unexcused absence and suspension from the next contest.
Athletes/Activity participants must be in school all day the day following a weekday game/event. “Sleeping in”, regardless of parental excuse, will be regarded as an unexcused absence and will warrant a suspension to be determined by the athletic director and coach/activity sponsor.
Students must attend pep assemblies during their sport season or face suspension for the next athletic contest/activity event. Contact athletic director/ principal/ coach/sponsor if an exception arises.
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SUSPENSION FROM SCHOOL
If a student is suspended from school (in and/or out) the student will not be eligible for the next competition/event he/she may compete in.
If a student is suspended from school, the student will not be able to participate in any practices until the suspension is completed. The absence from practice will be considered as one unexcused practice no matter how many days the student is suspended.
If a student is suspended from school for a second time during a sport/activity the student will be suspended from that sport/activity for the remainder of the season.
PRACTICE ATTENDANCE
Athletes/Activity participants must attend 1/2 of the practices between contests in order to be eligible for the next competition/event. (Exceptions can be made by the Athletic/Activity/ Director/Principal.)
UNEXCUSED ABSENCE
An unexcused absence from practice is one in which the coach/sponsor has not been notified by the athlete/activity participant or their parent, that he or she will miss practice that day. This could also include an excuse that is not acceptable by his or her coach/supervisor. (e.g. something other than school absence or emergency situation.)
First unexcused absence - student and parent are notified of the unexcused absence. AN UNEXCUSED ABSENCE form MUST BE signed by the student and PARENT and returned to the coach/sponsor. Athletes/Activity participants will miss the next athletic contest/ activity event.
Second unexcused absence - Athlete/Activity participants and parent will be notified. The student will be suspended for the remainder of the season.
QUITTING A SPORT
If a student chooses to quit a sport/activity he/she is expected to do it properly. The student should make his/her reasons known to the coach in person and must return all equipment and clear all financial responsibilities with the school. Fees may be returned if a student quits a sport/activity within the first two weeks of practice (It is the student’s/parent’s responsibility to request a refund of fees).
A student who quits a sport or activity may not participate in a/the second/next sport or activity during the same season until he/she obtains a written release from the coach of the sport/activity dropped. EXAMPLE: If a participant quits football, he may not begin basketball practice nor join the cross country team until the football season is completed or he receives written permission from his football coach.
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Gunnison High School Athletic/Activity Code of Conduct
GENERAL EXPECTATIONS OF ATHLETES/ACTIVITY PARTICIPANTS
Participants are expected to conduct themselves in a commendable manner at all times in school and the community with special emphasis on appropriate behavior during interscholastic contests, and toward opponents, officials and spectators. The use of profane language and/or unsportsmanlike conduct, the harassment, intimidation or assault upon another individual or another individual’s property will not be tolerated. All athletic and activity participants and their parents should understand that participation in extra-curricular activities is a privilege and not a right. Given that point of emphasis, ALL students representing Gunnison High School in competition are expected to follow training and practice rules as outlined by the Athletic/Activity Code and by their sport/activity specific rules & regulations. Gunnison High School administration and staff also recognize that the expectations set forth in this contract are not only intended to teach proper behavior, respect and responsibility but also to promote the safety and welfare of every GHS student.
CODE VIOLATIONS
- Any infraction of the above mentioned situations may result in a contract violation.
- The building principal will have the authority to make the final decision in all code violation matters.
- GHS Student rules of conduct and behavior apply at all school-sponsored activities both on and off campus.
When is this contract in effect?This contract is in effect throughout the student’s high school career (from the time the student first signed the contract until the day of graduation). Except for criminal offenses, code violations will be enforced during the school year only (defined as the first day of fall practice through the last day of school and or the official end of an activity/sport season). Criminal offense violations are subject to suspension and disciplinary action on a year round basis. Examples of criminal offenses include, but are not limited to: DUI, sale of or possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia, crimes of violence, theft.
Is the code in effect while I am out of season?
Students who violate the Code of Conduct out of season within the time frame identified above, or while participating in a school sanctioned activity during the summer months (i.e. camps, fundraising events, etc. ), are subject to disciplinary action at the beginning of the next competitive season or the next activity in which they are involved.
What happens if a violation is reported?
Any violation reported to the school administration will be investigated. Persons reporting said violation MUST be willing to testify in person or in writing if requested. Also see NOTIFICATION AND DUE PROCESS below.
Note - Students and parents should be aware that while school personnel do not monitor websites such as “Facebook” and “Myspace” looking for incriminating evidence, such sights are public and may be used during an investigation.
NOTIFICATION AND DUE PROCESS
The student and his or her parent(s)/guardian(s) shall be notified as soon as possible of any alleged code violation. The student and his or her parent(s)/guardian(s) shall have an opportunity to meet with building administrators regarding the allegations. At that time the student will have the opportunity to admit to the alleged code violation or to present evidence and/or challenge evidence presented against him or her. After this meeting, the athletic director and/or building administrator will then render a decision which will result in one of three actions.
If a suspension is assessed at this time, the athletic director or building administrator shall inform the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) of the decision and the basis for it. Notification will be either in person, by phone or in writing.
Appeal Process
The parent(s)/guardian(s) or athlete may appeal the decision in writing to the superintendant or superintendant’s designee, within three(3) school days after the decision of the athletic director or building administrator. The superintendent or his/her designee will, within three (3) school days of receipt of the written appeal, arrange a meeting between the appropriate parties to review the suspension. This meeting will be conducted by the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee. At this meeting the student will again be provided the opportunity to present on his/her behalf and challenge evidence that has been presented. A summary of the meeting, including the decision made, will be put in writing by the person conducting the meeting and a copy sent to the athlete and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) within three (3) school days after the meeting has been held.
- The school shall consider this decision final.
FIRST VIOLATION(Violations other that criminal offenses) The student/athlete will be suspended immediately from the current sport season for a minimum of forty (40%) of the allowable contests as established by the Colorado High School Activities Association (including playoffs) or according to the carry-over rule. If the student/athlete is not currently involved in an activity; he/she will be suspended for forty percent (40%) of the next season in which he/she is a bona fide team member.
Criminal Offense Violations – The student will be suspended for the remainder of the current or upcoming season. Depending on the severity of the offense, criminal offenses may warrant up to a 12 month suspension.
Honesty Penalty Reduction
Students who on their own volition report their code violations (not including criminal offenses) to the principal, athletic director or coach will have their suspension reduced to ten (10) percent of the allowable contests. The honesty penalty reduction is available on the first violation only and results in the student waiving his or her right to appeal the suspension. The honesty penalty reduction may not apply when the school would have been made aware of the violation through another source. If an athlete self reports a criminal violation of the athletic/activity code, it will be taken into consideration, along with the severity of the offense, when determining the length of the suspension.
SPORT/ACTIVITY ALLOWABLE CONTESTS 40% SUSPENSION 10% SUSPENSION
Baseball 19 7 contests 2 contests
Basketball 19 7 contests 2 contests
Cross Country 11 4 contests 1 contest
Dance N/A 4 contests/performances 1 contest
Football 10 4 contests 1 contest
Golf Boys/Girls 11 4 contests 1 contest
Gymnastics 11 4 contests 1 contest
Softball 19 7 contests 2 contests
Swimming Boys/Girls 11 4 contests 1 contest
Track 11 4 contests 1 contest
Volleyball 19 7contests 2 contests
Wrestling 30 matches 12 matches 3 matches
Activities N/A Minimum suspension to be the next event (additional
suspension to be determined by sponsor and
administration)
- Please note that all student/athletes must start the season at the beginning of the sports season (before the 1st contest date) and successfully complete the season in order for a suspension to be completed.
CARRY OVER RULE: A suspension will be carried over and enforced, on a percentage basis, into the athlete’s next sport season if the suspension has not been completed. (The next sport season being the next sport the athlete participates in and is a bona fide team member.)SECOND VIOLATION
A second offense within the same school calendar year will warrant suspension from all athletics/activities for the remainder of the school year.
A second offense occurring not in the same school year, but during a student’s attendance at Gunnison High School will result in suspension from twice as many contests as are applicable for the first violation.
THIRD VIOLATION
A third offense and any subsequent violations occurring at any time during a student’s attendance at Gunnison High School will result in suspension from all athletics/activities for the remainder of their high school career. Consideration for reinstatement of eligibility may be considered after the completion of a rehabilitative or counseling program and a minimum of 100 hours of community service.
In order for a student to participate in an activity or athletic program, the student’s parent/guardian(s) must sign and return the acknowledgement of “this contract” to the building athletic/activity director.
In the event that information is reported to the school, I agree to cooperate fully with the school’s investigation and if needed, I will give the school a release for criminal justice and or juvenile justice records to complete the investigation. If I refuse to give consent when asked, this would become grounds for a contract violation.**
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Student/Athlete Signature Parent/Guardian Signature
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